Japanese Photographer Missing in LA

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is requesting the public's assistance in locating a Japanese photographer who has been missing since September 3, 2006. 

Go Masuda, 29 years-old,  5' 8", 170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes was last seen wearing a dark blazer style jacket, white shirt and blue jeans.  He arrived from Japan and was scheduled to be in Los Angeles from September 1st through September 4th, 2006 for a music photo shoot.

Masuda's last known whereabouts on September 3, 2006, at 7:55 AM, was the northbound 405 Freeway at Montana Street, where he accessed a Call Box, requesting assistance because he had run out of gas.  On September 3, 2006, at 8:25 AM, Masuda's rented vehicle was found abandoned (out of gas) at the location.  As a California Highway Patrol officer was impounding the vehicle, he found photo equipment still in the vehicle.  There was no evidence of foul play, but Masuda is listed as missing under "unknown circumstances."   The vehicle has since been released to the rental agency.

Masuda's physical and mental health is described as good.  He has no prior history of missing.  Family and co-workers describe him as extremely responsible and insist his disappearance is out of character.  Previously Masuda has lived in the San Diego Area and is familiar with Southern California.  He speaks both English and Japanese. 

Missing Persons Unit will handle all press contacts.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Go Masuda contact the LAPD's, Missing Persons Unit Detectives Lydia Dillard or Bruce Kuehl at 213-485-5381. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).